Bell & Ross BR 05 Artline Dragon
In 2024, the Year of the Dragon will grace us. In Chinese astrology, individuals born under this sign are known for their active, strong-willed, confident, enterprising, and lucky traits. The BR 05 Artline Dragon watch embodies this vibrant personality through exclusive laser engraving, evoking the essence of a tattoo.The Artline series by the Maison sought to provide watches adorned with intricate details, as evident in the gadrooning-adorned versions. Now, Bell & Ross is taking a bolder step. Part of the Maison's ethos is pushing boundaries. The BR 05 Artline Dragon ventures into uncharted territory by embracing visual elements rooted in the art of tattooing. Employing a play of light and shadow achieved through varying stroke thickness, this line work becomes instrumental in transcending the realm of mere drawing to that of a metal tattoo.
Crafted from steel with dimensions of 40mm x 10.33mm, Bell & Ross has transformed the entire watch into a work of art instead of making a little sculpture for the dial and gluing it on or painting it in a different color. They employ a unique laser engraving technique to adorn the steel case, creating a flatter surface compared to hand engraving. However, the darkness of the engraved areas effectively enhances the contrast, allowing the intricate floral, fauna motifs, and the prominent dragon to be clearly visible.
On the flip-side we have an exhibition case back that allows a view into the inner workings of the mechanical movement. Unlike the very decorative frontal portion the back has the standard look of the BR 05 series, showcasing golden gears, purple jewels and a spokes style rotor.
It comes equipped with a setting-crown surrounded by crown guards also laser-engraved with dragon features. The crown is standard and embossed with the Bell & Ross ampersand logo. All topped by a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating. Water-resistance can reach up to 100 meters (330 feet).
On the dial we may not find any numerals, but you'll find a meticulously laser-engraved dragon head, complete with scales, claws, and teeth. In keeping with the essence of this season, the dragon commands attention at the heart of the dial, its gaze seemingly peering into the future. 
As you trace its body along the bracelet links, it elegantly coils like a Chinese dragon. The intricate scales, brought to life through precise laser engraving, showcase the skillful craftsmanship of Bell & Ross, leaving no doubt about their artistic intent.
The BR 05 Artline Dragon offers a distinctive approach to the Dragon zodiac commemorative watch. At the heart of its design lies the tattoo-inspired concept, bringing a fresh and unique perspective that will resonate with a specific and discerning audience.
The central satin-finished rhodium-plated skeletonized hour and minute hands, are also enriched by a black lacquer filling that continues the zodiac theme by appearing as the dragon's whiskers in a curved s-form, further elevating the attention to detail. There is also a steel framed date window at the 3 o’clock position with black numerals, which manages to be effective and discreet.
Bell & Ross BR 05 Artline Dragon
The “Bell & Ross BR 05 Artline Dragon” (Ref#: BR05A-DR-ST/SST) is powered by the self-winding mechanical movement, caliber BR-CAL.321 with 23 jewels and 28,800 Vph. Power reserve can last up to 54 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted on the watch is a stainless-steel bracelet, laser engraved with the continuation of the dragon theme by incorporating its long scaled body and tail, which required engraving each link individually, before assembly. It secures to the wrist by a steel folding buckle. 
This is a limited edition of only 99 manufactured pieces. 
For more up to date information visit the official Bell & Ross website here.
